Covid-19 has not gone away. While the number of confirmed cases has fallen since its peak in January, there is still good reason to be vigilant when it comes to recognising symptoms of the virus and taking precautions against the spread of infection.
The most common symptoms are still a fever (above 38 degrees Celsius), shivering, fatigue and a dry cough. Here’s what the HSE says to do if you have symptoms, whether you have been vaccinated or not.
If you develop even mild symptoms, you should self-isolate by staying in your room until 48 hours after symptoms have subsided. You should also wear a face mask if you can’t avoid contact with other people.
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In addition to flu-like symptoms, more serious signs of illness include shortness of breath, loss of appetite, confusion as well as chest pain or pressure.
Less common symptoms of the illness may include a loss of taste or smell, headaches, a sore throat, muscle or joint pain, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, a blocked nose and dizziness.
The HSE stresses that people with symptoms should not attend vaccination appointments if they have Covid symptoms.
If you are not sure about the symptoms you have, you should contact your GP, who may decide to book a Covid-19 test for you. This may require giving your Eircode and PPS number.
In the case of severe symptoms like extreme shortness of breath or the inability to finish sentences, call 112 or 999 and request an ambulance.
When it comes to mask wearing, the HSE advises people to wear a medical or respirator mask. The best way to protect yourself is still to get vaccinated.
The HSE encourages people meeting others at high risk to wear a face mask. Face masks should also be worn in medical settings like clinics and hospitals. You should also wear a mask if you are stopping self-isolation after seven days (wear a mask for 10 days in total).
Masks are also encouraged on public transport and in other crowded places but are no longer a requirement.
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